2009 Nissan Qashqai 1.5L Diesel · FN59 WDC

The most recent DVSA MOT test on 24 October 2025 resulted in a pass, though three advisories were recorded, namely an offside front lower suspension arm pin or bush wearing at the rear location, and both rear brake discs showing signs of wear, pitting, or scoring. While the test outcome is positive, the cumulative history over the past four years points to a maintenance trend that is at best stable and arguably slowly worsening. A dangerous failure was issued in November 2020 for exposed tyre cords on both front tyres, an excessively worn offside front lower suspension arm ball joint, excessive play in the offside track rod end, and a rear brake imbalance across an axle. Although the vehicle has passed each subsequent test, the same areas of concern continue to surface, with front track rod end play noted in 2023 and 2024, front suspension arm bushes flagged in 2022, 2024, and again in 2025, and persistent brake disc wear advisories appearing throughout. This recurrence across multiple test cycles suggests that although the vehicle remains roadworthy, the underlying wear items are being monitored rather than fully resolved, and a prospective buyer should expect near-term replacement work on the front suspension and braking components. With 126,381 miles recorded over approximately seventeen years, this Qashqai has averaged around 7,434 miles annually, which is broadly typical for a vehicle of this age and consistent with regular mixed-use driving. The mileage progression between tests appears steady and continuous, with no significant gaps that would suggest long periods of standing or inconsistent usage. This is mechanically favourable, as a vehicle that has been driven regularly tends to suffer less from issues such as seized brake calipers, deteriorated fuel system components, and perished rubber seals compared to one that has stood unused for extended intervals. That said, the recurring advisories on suspension components warrant close physical inspection before purchase. The front lower suspension arm bushes, both nearside and offside, have been flagged at multiple tests since 2022, and a track rod end ball joint showing slight play was recorded in both 2023 and 2024. On a test drive, listen for clonking or knocking noises from the front end particularly over speed humps, uneven road surfaces, or when turning at low speed, and check for vague or wandering steering response, uneven front tyre wear such as inner or outer edge feathering, and any visual cracking or deformation of the rubber bushes when viewed from underneath with the car on a ramp. The rear brake disc advisories, which have escalated from front discs in earlier years to rear discs in 2025, indicate progressive wear that will likely require disc refurbishment or replacement within the next service interval. During a test drive, observe whether the vehicle pulls to one side under braking, whether there is any shudder through the pedal or steering wheel, and whether the handbrake holds firmly on an incline. Given the vehicle's age, accumulated mileage, and the corrosion advisories noted on the front sub-frame and rear suspension arm in 2022 and 2023, a prospective buyer should also carry out age-related checks that do not necessarily appear on the MOT record. Inspect the condition of all tyres not only for tread depth but for sidewall cracking or perishing caused by age, examine the exhaust system for rust or blowing joints particularly around mounting brackets and the rear silencer, and verify that the brake fluid and coolant have been changed in line with calendar-based service schedules regardless of the recorded mileage. The 12V battery should be tested for cranking performance, as a 17-year-old original unit is likely due for replacement. It would also be prudent to lift the vehicle and inspect the sub-frame and rear suspension arm corrosion points directly, as these were noted as recently as 2023, to confirm they have not progressed beyond the advisory threshold. Finally, confirming a full service history with regular oil and filter changes at sensible intervals will provide reassurance that the engine and drivetrain have been maintained appropriately for a high-mileage example of this age.